Dental Implants for All Patient Needs

Tooth loss is quite common, which means a significant number of people will always be looking for ways to replace those missing teeth. Dental professionals today routinely recommend implants, but not everyone is familiar with the various dental implant types currently available. If you’ve lost teeth or expect to, now is the best time to discuss strategies to replace missing teeth.

Explore the Two Types of Dental Implants

Dental professionals now use two types of implants to help clients replace missing teeth. The more traditional option is endosteal implants. This option uses titanium screws inserted in the jawbone and intended to last for many years. This option is recommended for patients who have sufficient healthy jawbone to support the implants. In some cases, existing jawbone can be augmented to provide a better base for the implant. The dental professionals will explain the process and determine what treatment options are most likely to succeed.

The second option is a subperiosteal implant. This type of implant may be recommended when there is insufficient jawbone and the patient is not an ideal candidate for bone augmentation. The implant is placed under the gum just above the jawbone. This strategy may not provide the desired results for all patients and should be discussed with the dental expert prior to any treatment.

Ask About Other Options

There are times when patients have to look carefully at other dental implant options to properly meet their needs. The dentist may suggest a mini dental implant for some patients. This is an alternative that makes it possible for some patients who are missing several lower teeth and need a way to anchor a lower denture. All-on-4® is commonly suggested when a patient is replacing all their teeth. The process provides a solid attachment point for replacement teeth. If you’re facing the need for a full arch, ask about this strategy to make the teeth feel and behave more naturally.

Dental experts are constantly finding innovative ways to treat patients in need of one or more replacement teeth. The important thing is to keep an open mind and be willing to discuss all the available tooth replacement options with the dentist. For an evaluation of your needs, contact the local dental experts today.